Our counselors offer career counseling in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Denise Ludwig-Coe is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 17 years of experience in the mental health field. Denise is also a Clinical Nurse Specialist for 40+ years and is highly motivated to play a part in helping others to decrease the pain that often accompanies many life challenges. Denise works well with all people because of her deep respect for the diversity, yet sameness, among all people; especially when at times there may be overwhelming feelings in trying to adapt to illness, loss/grief, transitioning to older age, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, alcoholism/addiction, pain, and a sense of helplessness, and not knowing where to turn. Her passion is to offer a sense of comfort and hope to those who reach out for help. Because of Denise’s dual career choice, she has also been active in helping those in the medical field, including nurses with mental health and substance use issues and who may be involved in an alternative to discipline program in Florida. Her approach is person-centered and eclectic. She draws from the field of positive psychology and coaching, and uses mindfulness, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused therapy, as well as 12-Step Facilitation therapy, and stress management practices.

Denise completed both her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a clinical specialty in Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing at Syracuse University. She worked many years in direct clinical work with mental health clients in hospitals as well as in the community. Denise also worked in Public Health dealing with mental health and family issues among Spanish-speaking families living in Syracuse. She wasprivileged to teach and clinically supervise nursing students at the associate and bachelor's degree levels. Recognizing many of the stressors inherent in the health professions and wanting to play a part in strengthening caregiver resiliency and decreasing compassion fatigue, Denise returned to school and completed her Master of Science (MS) in Counseling at Nova Southeastern University, specializing in Substance Abuse Counseling and Education. Later, becoming more aware of how trauma and adverse childhood experiences impact the extended physical and mental health of people, she returned to school at Capella University to seek a PhD with a focus on the impact of trauma and later addictions in women. Due to her needing to become the primary caregiver to her dying parents, Denise did not complete the dissertation and instead received a master’s degree in Multidisciplinary Human Services. She has been a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) in Florida. She also served as a nurse in the US Army reserves and worked in a combat support field hospital. Because of her diverse experiences in mental health, Denise has a broad base of knowledge and expertise. She is currently a Clinical Supervisor for Mental Health Counselor interns.

Part of being human means we all go through difficult times, when we don't know what to do and we feel unable to think straight. We may make decisions that make our situations even more complicated. We may feel shame or fear of loss (job, relationship, esteem of others) if we were to say out loud our thoughts and feelings. Maybe we are grieving and feel our pain will never end, BUT talking to a mental health professional can help. Talking to someone who listens with compassion, never judging or telling you what to do, but listens, and by being fully present, helps you to feel less alone, and more able to regain the direction for your life. If you are ready to reach out, Denise is ready to join you in your journey. Schedule an appointment with her today.

Hi, I'm Nikkia Gattuso, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, insomnia, mood disorders, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or stuck and are looking for practical solutions and lasting relief. My approach is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I take the time to listen, understand your goals, and create a treatment plan that helps you improve your mental health, build resilience, and feel more like yourself again.

My approach is collaborative, supportive, and focused on practical solutions. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders in adults and older adults. You can expect personalized care, thoughtful medication management, and a safe space to build resilience, confidence, and lasting emotional wellness. 

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Whether you're facing a difficult season or looking for lasting change, I'm here to help. When you're ready, I welcome the opportunity to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida with approximately 15 years of experience working with adults. I am also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Florida, where I provide supervision and support to counselors entering the profession and developing their clinical skills.I specialize in helping clients navigate OCD, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, stress, academic and work-related concerns, anger management, self-esteem, parenting, grief, and bereavement.

My therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, and tailored to each individual’s goals, needs, strengths, and challenges. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CPT),  Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and other evidence-based approaches to help clients develop practical strategies and create meaningful and sustainable change.

I believe therapy is most effective when clients feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their treatment. I strive to create a supportive, collaborative, and engaging environment where clients can explore challenges openly while developing the confidence and skills needed to move forward.

I’m an RN and LCSW with experience in community mental health, medical social work, and group therapy. I work with adults 18+ and seniors 65+ who are navigating life transitions, stress, anxiety, or simply need a supportive place to talk things through. I also provide therapy to those in the medical field, experiencing burnout and compassion fatigue. I am especially interested in clients facing eating disorders, grief and loss as well as looking at career change.

Clients describe me as approachable, caring, and practical. My goal is to create a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing your story without fear of judgment. I use CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy, SFBT, solution focused brief therapy as well as a strengths based approach in therapy. I believe healing starts with being heard. In our sessions, you’ll have space to tell your story, share what brought you to therapy, and explore new perspectives.

My style is collaborative and supportive — I’ll help you reframe unhelpful thoughts, practice practical coping skills like journaling and mindfulness, and problem-solve to create realistic solutions for your future. I became a therapist after working as an RN for many years. I realized that I was interested in exploring a client's back story regarding stress. I am a dog lover, and also enjoy going to the gym, and watching documentaries.

Marcus Hibbler is a dedicated and compassionate Registered Mental Health Intern with 2 years of extensive experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health challenges including autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Marcus is comfortable working with people of all ages and backgrounds, creating a welcoming and supportive environment where he administers personalized and effective care. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, Marcus is here to help you navigate your mental health journey with empathy and expertise.

Marcus received his Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health from Walden University. He primarily utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy to help clients develop practical skills to manage their mental health. Marcus may also use approaches including compassion-focused therapy, family systems, and motivational interviewing.

Marcus is dedicated to helping clients face life's challenges with understanding and support in a safe space where individuals of all ages can explore their thoughts and feelings and find their way forward. If you’re ready to take that first step toward positive change, Marcus is ready to meet you.